How to Fix French Doors That Aren’t Closing Properly: A Simple Guide

If you’re struggling with a set of French doors that won’t close, you’ve come to the right place. Like all parts of the home, French doors can sometimes need a bit of maintenance, especially when they start sticking or won’t close properly.

In this blog, we’ll explore some of the main reasons your external doors might not be closing and give you some simple fixes you can try. Let’s get into it.

Alignment Issues From Temperature Fluctuations

Especially in hot weather or extreme heat, materials expand. uPVC doors and even wooden doors are susceptible to this. If your doors are sticking, it might be due to temperature fluctuations or exposure to direct sunlight. Use a tape measure to check the alignment at various points around the door. If things seem off, it might be time to adjust those uPVC door hinges.

Adjusting Loose Hinges

Over time, loose screws can cause your doors to hang incorrectly. This is a common issue but one that’s often easily fixed. Tighten any loose screws on the uPVC door hinges or corner bearings—just a few twists can make a big difference.

Dealing with a Sticking Lock

A problematic locking mechanism can prevent your doors from closing correctly. If your locking cylinder is not turning, it could be jammed with debris or just worn out. Remove the mechanism and check for visible damage or obstructions. Sometimes, cleaning it out or replacing a few parts can make it work like new. If the issue doesn’t go away, replacing the entire locking cylinder might be necessary.

Fixing a Dragging Door

If your French patio doors drag on the floor, making it hard to open or close them, you might need to adjust the bottom hinge. For uPVC doors, slightly raise the door by adjusting the screws in the hinge. If the door is wooden and rubbing against the frame, you might need to plane down the edges. Be sure to do this incrementally to avoid taking off too much material.

Still Having Trouble? Our Team Can Help

If you’ve tried all the fixes mentioned above and your french door still isn’t behaving, it might be time to call in the experts. At our company, we have years of expertise in fitting and fixing doors of all kinds. Let our skilled team take a look—they’ll be able to pinpoint the issue and either fix it or help you find a replacement door that suits your budget and style. Don’t let door troubles keep you from enjoying your home to the fullest; reach out today and get the professional help you need!